I've often said if I knew where the good songs came from, I'd go there more often.

I've never thought of myself as a religious person.

Poetry is just the evidence of life. If your life is burning well, poetry is just the ash.

I want history to jump on Canada's spine with sharp skates.

I always thought that poetry is the verdict that others give to a certain kind of writing. So to call yourself a poet is a kind of dangerous description. It's for others; it's for others to use.

I would like to work with Pat [ Leonard] in any capacity. I would love to hear his versions.

I've never thought of myself as a singer anyway. . . I've been free from those considerations because so many people over the years told me I don't have a voice. I kind of bought that. I never thought that much about it to begin with. I knew I didn't have one of the great voices. As my Damon Runyanesque lawyer used to say, "none of you guys can sing. If I want to hear singing, I'll go to the Metropolitan Opera."